When my family and I decided to explore Kansas City, I wanted to ensure we had the perfect home base to enjoy the city’s rich culture, history, and attractions. With so many options available, finding the ideal family-friendly accommodation that balances comfort, convenience, and a bit of local charm can be challenging. After much research and personal experience, I’ve compiled a list of the best family accommodations in Kansas City, each offering unique features and amenities tailored to families. Here’s a detailed look at our top picks, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
1. The Fontaine
Located in the heart of the Country Club Plaza district, The Fontaine exudes sophistication and charm. This luxurious hotel stands out with its striking architecture and proximity to some of the city’s best attractions.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Spacious Suites: The Fontaine’s suites are designed with families in mind. We stayed in a one-bedroom suite that provided a generous amount of space. The separate living area allowed our children to play freely while we relaxed. The in-room amenities included a comfortable sofa bed, a dining table, and a fully stocked mini-bar, which made it easier to manage meals and snacks for the kids.
- Rooftop Pool: The rooftop pool is a major highlight. Overlooking the city skyline, it offers a fantastic setting for family fun. My kids were thrilled by the pool’s design and enjoyed swimming with a view. The pool area also features comfortable loungers and cabanas, which were perfect for us to unwind while keeping an eye on the kids.
- On-Site Dining: The Fontaine Grill, located within the hotel, is an excellent dining option for families. The menu includes a range of dishes from light bites to hearty meals, with plenty of options for children. We enjoyed breakfast here each morning, and the friendly staff made sure our kids were well taken care of with their favorite breakfast items.
Booking Tip: For the best rates and availability, I highly recommend using platforms like Expedia or Booking.com. They offer detailed reviews, competitive pricing, and the ability to compare different room types to find what best suits your family’s needs.
2. 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City
If you’re looking for an accommodation that combines modern comfort with an engaging cultural experience, the 21c Museum Hotel is a fantastic choice. Located downtown, this hotel doubles as a contemporary art museum, making it a unique experience for both kids and adults.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Art Installations: The 21c Museum Hotel is renowned for its ever-changing art installations and exhibits. The interactive art pieces throughout the hotel’s public spaces are both intriguing and family-friendly. My children were particularly fascinated by the quirky and colorful installations, which provided an excellent backdrop for some memorable family photos.
- Spacious Rooms: The rooms are modern and spacious, designed to provide comfort and convenience. We appreciated the extra space, which included a seating area where the kids could play games or watch their favorite shows. The room’s design is both functional and stylish, making it a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring.
- Restaurant and Bar: The hotel’s restaurant, The Savoy, offers a variety of dishes with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for family dining. We enjoyed several meals here, and the menu’s variety ensured there was something for everyone. The restaurant also offers a kid-friendly menu, which was a hit with our little ones.
Booking Tip: For exclusive packages and promotions, consider booking directly through the 21c Museum Hotel’s official website. They often offer special deals that may not be available on third-party booking sites.
3. Great Wolf Lodge Kansas City
For an all-in-one resort experience, Great Wolf Lodge is hard to beat. Located a short drive from the city center, this resort is designed to be a fun destination in itself, with a massive indoor water park and numerous family-friendly activities.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Indoor Water Park: The indoor water park is the crown jewel of Great Wolf Lodge. With an array of water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, it’s an attraction that kept our kids entertained for hours. The park’s design allows for year-round fun, regardless of the weather outside.
- Themed Rooms: Great Wolf Lodge offers themed suites that provide an extra layer of excitement for kids. The Wolf Den and Kid Cabin suites feature themed decor and separate areas for kids to play and sleep. This thoughtful design helped make our children’s stay extra special.
- Family Activities: Beyond the water park, the lodge provides a range of activities designed to keep families engaged. From a ropes course and mini-golf to a magical quest adventure game, there’s no shortage of fun activities. We found the magic quest adventure to be a great way to bond as a family and explore the resort.
Booking Tip: Check the Great Wolf Lodge official website for seasonal promotions and package deals. Booking directly can offer added perks such as early check-in or late check-out, enhancing your overall experience.
4. The Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza
This Marriott property combines the reliability of a well-known brand with a prime location near the Country Club Plaza. It’s a practical choice for families who want easy access to shopping, dining, and local attractions.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Prime Location: The Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza is situated in a vibrant area with numerous dining and shopping options. It’s also close to popular attractions like the Kansas City Zoo and Union Station. This central location made it easy for us to explore the city without spending too much time on transportation.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: The hotel features a pool that was a hit with our children. After a day of sightseeing, the pool provided a relaxing way for the kids to unwind. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, with ample space for our family. The Marriott’s consistent service meant that our stay was smooth and enjoyable.
- On-Site Dining: The hotel’s restaurant offers a variety of meal options that cater to all tastes. We enjoyed the convenience of having a family-friendly restaurant right on the property, which simplified meal planning during our stay.
Booking Tip: Using the Marriott Bonvoy app or website can help you earn points and access member rates. This is a great way to get additional benefits and potentially save on future stays.
5. Hotel Kansas City
For a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities, Hotel Kansas City is an excellent choice. Housed in a former bank building, this hotel provides a distinctive and elegant setting for your stay.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Historic Ambiance: The hotel’s design preserves the grandeur of its original architecture. The opulent lobby and grand staircase added a touch of elegance to our stay. The historical features provided an interesting and memorable backdrop for our visit.
- Spacious Rooms: The rooms at Hotel Kansas City are well-sized and tastefully decorated. The blend of historic charm and modern comfort created a welcoming environment for our family. The spaciousness allowed for easy relaxation and quality family time.
- Central Location: Located in the heart of downtown, Hotel Kansas City offers easy access to a variety of attractions and activities. We enjoyed being within walking distance of numerous restaurants, shops, and local landmarks.
Booking Tip: Keep an eye on Hotel Kansas City’s website for special offers and packages that can enhance your stay. Look for promotions that include additional perks like breakfast or parking to make your visit even more convenient.
Kansas City offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to families, each providing a unique experience that enhances your visit. Whether you’re drawn to the luxury of The Fontaine, the art-filled environment of 21c Museum Hotel, the all-in-one fun of Great Wolf Lodge, the convenience of the Marriott, or the historic charm of Hotel Kansas City, there’s something to suit every family’s needs and preferences.
Each of these hotels offers a special feature or amenity that can make your family trip to Kansas City memorable. From luxurious suites and themed rooms to exciting water parks and cultural experiences, these accommodations ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
For booking, I recommend using trusted platforms like Expedia and Booking.com to compare rates and read reviews. Alternatively, booking directly through the hotel’s official website can often unlock exclusive deals and added benefits. No matter which option you choose, planning ahead and securing the right accommodation will set the stage for an unforgettable family adventure in Kansas City.
